Toronto hosts first World Cup match Wednesday: Canada vs Bosnia
Local residents split on who to root for as Exhibition Place gears up for June 12 kickoff.
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Toronto gets its first FIFA World Cup game Wednesday when Canada faces Bosnia at Exhibition Place on June 12, and Torontonians are already placing bets on who will take it home.
The city's multicultural makeup means plenty of residents are torn between national pride and personal heritage. Resident Armin S., who is Bosnian, backs Bosnia, citing the team's talent and the depth of experience its players have developed in European leagues. He points to captain Edin Džeko, who grew up in Bosnia during the war in the 90s and has played the game for a very long time — bringing intensity and veteran leadership.
Canada's side will feature star player Jonathan David, and both teams are hungry for the opening-game advantage. The clash highlights what makes Toronto unique during the World Cup: a city where fans genuinely care about multiple countries, not just one.
Expect Exhibition Place to be packed Wednesday. Whether you're cheering red and white or flying another flag, this is the kind of moment that defines summer in the 6ix.